Job Description

For those who dream bigger!

At the Hermitage, Aoraki/Mount Cook, our guests stay with us because of the unique location, amazing views, excellent service, and the one-off experiences we provide. Our team members choose to work with us because of the extraordinary career opportunity it is to work in the national park whilst delivering memorable guest experiences. Our team see every aspect the of the hospitality industry, whilst gaining a unique experience that develops their career, and can be transferred when they are ready for the next exciting adventure.

Are you a safety-focused maritime professional and emerging leader with a passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences in a unique alpine environment? We are seeking a hands-on Assistant Operations Manager to support the Glacier Explorers (GE) operation delivering guided trips on the stunning Tasman Glacier Lake in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.

Reporting to the Operations Manager GE, you will play a key role in the safe, efficient, and high-quality delivery of Glacier Explorers operations. You’ll support daily activities across both land and water, ensuring compliance with Maritime NZ regulations while helping lead and develop a high-performing team of Skippers who deliver unforgettable guest experiences.

Working as part of the Activities leadership team, this is an exciting developmental leadership opportunity, where you will contribute to operational delivery, team coordination, safety compliance, and continuous improvement in a dynamic alpine environment.

What will you bring to the role?

• You are a motivated and capable emerging leader with operational experience in maritime or adventure tourism, with a strong focus on guest experience and service delivery.
• You are a Qualified Skipper (or working towards it) who leads by example through active participation in skippering and frontline guest engagement.
• Support the Operations Manager in day-to-day leadership of the Glacier Explorers operation and steps into their duties in their absence.
• Ensure safe and compliant delivery of all guided trips in line with Maritime NZ and company standards.
• Demonstrated ability to assist in recruitment, onboarding, training, and coaching team members.
• Commercial awareness, with exposure to cost control, stock, or supporting operational budgets.
• Practical understanding of vessel and vehicle maintenance, or ability to support planned maintenance programmes.
• A proactive approach to problem-solving, process improvement, and supporting operational planning.
• Assist in coordinating daily operations, including staffing, scheduling, guest flow, and equipment readiness.
• Support with incident management, reporting, and continuous improvement of safety systems.
• A full, clean NZ driver’s licence (or international equivalent), with Class 2 and P endorsement advantageous.
• Have a Fit & Proper Person clearance and current First Aid Certificate (or able to obtain them)

The role and benefits

• Full Time, Permanent position, working 80 hours per fortnight, salary range $75-$85k per annum
• Live in Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park with stunning surroundings and an unparalleled commute
• Onsite accommodation available at reasonable rent (including Wi-Fi and power)
• Free access to all activities offered by The Hermitage Hotel after eight weeks’ service
• Generous discounts on food and beverage from day one
• Discounted hotel accommodation for friends and family after eight weeks

At the Hermitage, Aoraki / Mount Cook Alpine Village, we offer more than just a place to work – we offer a career lifestyle experience. If you love the outdoors, stunning mountains, being connected to nature, and changing seasons that include crisp snow and blue skies, then this role could be a perfect match and we would love to hear from you.

We are excited that you have read this far, and you're interested in working with us, but don't forget we are in a National Park, there are no shops, fast food outlets, or public transport, so if you can’t live without these, working for us will not be for you. Before you apply, read more about the location, climate, accommodation, working with us, and click on the Google Earth link to explore the village.